Stable pharmaceutical compositions with docetaxel

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I)(docetaxel) and 4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) (paclitaxel), methods for treating neoplastic tumors using anhydrous docetaxel and paclitaxel, and a process for the preparation of the anhydrous docetaxel and paclitaxel.

This application is a Divisional of application Ser. No. 10/582,385filed on Aug. 15, 2007 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,838,551, and for whichpriority is claimed under 35 U.S.C. §120; and this application claimspriority to International Application No. PCT/BR2004/000242 filed onDec. 10, 2004, which claims priority to Application No.PROV-020040015028 filed in Brazil on Dec. 8, 2004 and which claimspriority to Application No. PI0305824-7 filed in Brazil on Dec. 12, 2003under 35 U.S.C. §119; the entire contents of all are hereby incorporatedby reference.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of API's,more specifically, taxane derivatives, especially(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) and4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II).

One innovative aspect of the present invention refers to a processparticularly useful for obtaining anhydrous compounds which form stablehydrates and are thermolabile, which prevents the removal of water byconventional processes such as drying under vacuum at elevatedtemperatures.

Another innovative aspect of the present invention refers to a processfor the preparation of hydrated API's, more specifically taxanederivatives, especially the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-a-benzOylOxy-5ss-20-epoxy-1,7-ss-10-ss-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III).

Yet another innovative aspect of the present invention is with respectto a process for the preparation of injectable solutions, which aresterile and stable, from the API's according to the processes hereindescribed, which are useful in the treatment of disease or infirmity,including, but not limited to, neoplastic tumors and other conditionswhich respond to treatment with agents that inhibit the depolymerizationof tubulin, for example, cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs andothers.

The solutions are obtained by way of dissolution of the active principleI, II or III indicated above, in an appropriate biocompatible vehicle,followed by filtration through a membrane having a porosity less than orequal to 0.45 μm; or, dissolution of the active principle I, II or IIIin an appropriate biocompatible vehicle, previously acidified with anorganic or inorganic acid, followed by filtration through a membranehaving a porosity less than or equal to 0.45 μm; or, dissolution of theactive principle I, II or III in an appropriate biocompatible vehicle,posteriorly acidified, with an organic or inorganic acid followed byfiltration through a membrane having a porosity less than or equal to0.45 μm.

Lastly, the invention is also with respect to the stable pharmaceuticalcompositions thus obtained and the use of these compositions in thetreatment of disease or infirmity, including, but not limited to,neoplastic tumors and other conditions which respond to treatment withagents that inhibit the depolymerization of tubulin, for example,cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and others.

PRIOR ART

The active principle(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), a taxanederivative obtained by chemical semi-synthesis, which presentsanti-cancer and anti-leukemic properties.

There are various synthetic methods which lead to compound (I) as wellas its tri-hydrate (III), for example, those cited in patent PCT-WO92/09589 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A, U.S. Pat. No. 5,808,113issued to Hauser Inc., and patent PCT-WO 96/01815, also issued toRhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A.

The above mentioned compounds have demonstrated pharmacological activityagainst acute leukemia and solid tumors.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,504,102 issued to Bristol-Myers Squibb describes aprocess for the preparation of polyethoxylated castor oil with lowalkalinity and the use of this medium for the preparation of solutionscontaining antineoplastic agents.

Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,582 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S.A. describes a process for the preparation of compositions containingtaxane derivatives in a surfactant and the utility of these compositionsfor preparing perfusions.

Nonetheless, neither of these patents describe, nor do they suggestspecifically, the use of anhydrous active principles in conjunction withpolyethoxylated sorbitols which have been previously or posteriorlyacidified for the preparation of sterile, injectable solutions, whichconfers additional stability to the compositions.

Brazilian patent application PI 9508789-3A, whose priority is Frenchpatent FR 94 08479 issued to Rhone-Poulenc Rorer S. A., describes aprocess for the preparation of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III), employingrecrystallization from “a mixture of water and an aliphatic alcoholcontaining between 1 and 3 carbons, followed by drying the productobtained under pre-determined conditions of temperature, pressure andhumidity.”

This process presents various disadvantages. We call attention to thefact that this process suggests the prior purification of the(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate bychromatography.

Another disadvantage of this process resides in the fact that it isrecommended that the solvents used in the cromatographic purification beremoved by co-distillation with alcohol under reduced pressure whichresults in a “thick syrup whose agitation is difficult”.

Yet another disadvantage of this invention lies in the fact that theprocess recommends refrigeration of the solution to 0° C. in order toobtain the best results.

Lastly, the cited process requires drying under vacuum at elevatedtemperatures in an atmosphere with controlled humidity, which requirescostly and sophisticated equipment.

The patent in question also maintains that the tri-hydrate (III)obtained “presents clearly superior stability relative to the anhydrousproduct”.

However, comparative studies realized in our laboratories havedemonstrated that, when stored under adequate and controlled conditions,the anhydrous product (I) obtained by the processes claimed hereindemonstrates a stability equal or superior to the tri-hydrate and, thatunder these conditions of storage, the product does not re-hydrate to asignificant degree.

It has been observed that utilization of the anhydrous product (I),cited above, confers an equal or superior stability to thepharmaceutical finished dosage form, which can be illustrated bystability studies of solutions of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) inpolyethoxylated sorbitol which has been previously or posteriorlyacidified.

Brazilian patent application PI 9508789-3 cites as an example theaddition of ascorbic acid in the preparation of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, viarecrystallization, which involves a laborious and multi-step process, toconfer additional stability to the API.

Therefore, patent application PI 9508789-3, cited here as a reference,neither describes nor anticipates in a manner obvious to a personskilled in the art, the process for the preparation of the anhydrousproduct (I), as claimed in the present invention, which may be obtaineddirectly and with fewer experimental steps.

Furthermore, patent application PI9508789-3 does not anticipate norsuggest in a manner obvious to a person skilled in the art, theadditional stability conferred to pharmaceutical formulations byaddition of an organic or inorganic acid as claimed in the presentinvention.

On the other hand, U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,582 describes a process for thepreparation of solutions containing taxane derivatives in surfactantsand the utilization of the same to prepare perfusions. This processrequires that the active principle be first dissolved in ethanol,followed by addition of a surfactant and subsequent removal of theethanol under vacuum.

This process involves several steps and manipulations which makes itcomplex, laborious and lengthy.

The process claimed in the present invention overcomes thesedisadvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1—refers to a schematic representation of the filtration process,as constituted in “Scheme 1”;

FIG. 2—refers to a schematic representation of the dissolution andfiltration process as constituted in “Scheme 2”.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a first embodiment, the present invention is advantageous withrespect to the state of the art in that it is not necessary torecrystallize the active principle (III), with the concommitantreduction in the overall yield of the process. The anhydrous activeprinciple (I) may be obtained directly, in a single production step,resulting in considerable economy and a reduction in the number ofsteps.

In a second embodiment, the present invention also permits that, by useof the process described,(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), of highpurity, may be obtained in the form of an amorphous powder, whichgreatly facilitates its solubilization in biocompatible excipients. Thisresults in the formation of solutions appropriate to be used directly inthe confection of injectable pharmaceutical finished dosage formswithout the addition of ethanol or other complementary excipients.

In a third embodiment, while the state of the art mentions that theaddition of ascorbic acid during the recrystallization of the activeprinciple (III) confers additional stability to it, an innovationparticular to the present invention lies in the fact that it isadvantageous to add a weak acid during the preparation of pharmaceuticalsolutions of (I) and (III). This is neither mentioned nor suggested bythe state of the art.

As such, additional stability may be conferred to the finished dosageforms by addition of a weak acid to the solution. Acids which may beemployed include, but are not limited to: ascorbic, phosphoric, acetic,citric or tartaric acid.

A fourth embodiment of the present invention lies in the fact that it isnot necessary to first solubilize the active principle in ethanolfollowed by the subsequent removal of the ethanol as described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,698,582.

As proposed herein, the compounds (I) and (II) may be solubilizeddirectly in the vehicle utilized in the formulation without thenecessity of adding a co-solvent.

In a fifth embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to obtainstable, sterile pharmaceutical presentations, absent of pyrogens, ofsmall, medium and large volume, which are appropriate for administrationafter dilution, or for filling in ampoules, vials or other suitablerecipients which may be transported under adequate conditions for directuse in clinics and hospitals specialized in the treatment of cancerwhich possess installations for the dilution of cytostatic drugs.

The installations for the dilution of cytostatic drugs serve as a meansto ensure the individualization of the treatment for the cancer patientand offer an economy in the administration of the prescribed medication.

In this context, it is indispensable that sterile, stable and apyrogenic injectable formulations be available, ready for administrationin large volumes, ideally between 50 and 5,000 mL.

The solutions thus obtained may also be transported under adequateconditions and be filled into smaller recipients at another location.

In a sixth embodiment, the present invention also describes a processfor the preparation of concentrated solutions of4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (II) inpolyethoxylated sorbitols.

The state of the art utilizes as a vehicle for the formulation of (II) amixture of polyethoxylated castor oil, for example, Cremophor® EL or ELPand ethanol. It is well known that Cremophore® is responsible forvarious adverse reactions which requires premedication withanti-histamines, corticosteroids and/or H₂ antagonists.

Known commercial formulations also utilize considerable amounts ofethanol, which is responsible on many occasions for ethanol intoxicationof the patient due to the large volume of product administered toachieve the desired therapeutic effect.

As such, the exclusion of polyethoxylated castor oil and ethanol fromthe compositions of the present invention presents considerableadvantages from the patient point of view, and greatly reduce oreliminate the side-effects associated with these vehicles.

The process for the preparation of anhydrous API's according to thepresent invention, more specifically taxane derivatives, and especially(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oXo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) and4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) may be realizedaccording to various procedures as will become evident.

In a seventh embodiment of the present invention, an hydrated sample of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoylOxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) issolubilized in a chemically inert solvent which forms an azeotrope withwater. This solvent may be a linear or branched alcohol, an organicacid, a halogenated solvent, an aromatic solvent or another solvent ofsufficient polarity capable of solubilizing the hydrated product.Preferably the solvent employed in the present invention is a shortchain linear or branched alcohol.

The solution thus obtained is subjected to azeotropic distillation at atemperature between 20 and 200° C., and at a pressure between 1 and 800mm Hg to remove the water of hydration. In the case of hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the temperatureis, preferably, below 40° C.

In an eighth embodiment of the present invention, the hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate may also besolubilized in a combination of two or more of the aforementionedsolvents.

For example, these solvents may be a combination of a linear or branchedalcohol, an organic acid, a halogenated solvent, an aromatic solvent oranother solvent of sufficient polarity capable of solubilizing thehydrated product and capable of forming a binary, ternary or quaternaryazeotrope with water.

In the case of hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the proportionbetween the first and second solvent is on the order of between 1:2 to1:90.

Afterwards, the azeotropic distillation may be carried out at a pressurebetween <0.001 and 780 mm Hg. In the case of hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, the pressure ispreferentially between 0.1-100 mm Hg.

In a ninth embodiment of the present invention, impure(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) may besubjected to normal or reverse phase chromatography, employing a solventor mixture of solvents among those routinely employed in the technique.

In the case of impure(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-↑-tri-hydroxy-9-oXo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), thestationary phase may be silica gel, alumina or cellulose, or chemicallymodified versions thereof, including but not limited to RP-C18, RP-C8,RP-pentafluorophenyl or RP-phenyl. The stationary phase employed ispreferentially silica gel or RP-pentafluorophenyl.

In the case of normal phase chromatography, the solvents employed areesters, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, ethers, halogenatedsolvents, nitrites or mixtures thereof. It is understood that thetechnique of gradient elution may also be employed. In the present caseconcerning taxane derivatives, the solvents employed are preferentiallymixtures of alkanes and esters.

In the case of reverse phase chromatography, the solvents employed areesters, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, ethers, halogenatedsolvents, nitrites, water, aqueous buffer solutions or mixtures thereof.It is understood that the technique of gradient elution may also beemployed. In the present case concerning taxane derivatives, thesolvents employed are preferentially mixtures of nitrites or a shortchain linear alcohol and water in an acidic buffer.

After removal of the solvents, the anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate obtained may beused directly or submitted to one of the aforementioned processes forfurther purification and/or removal of water of hydration.

In a tenth embodiment of the present invention, a process for theformation of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate is describedemploying an anhydrous solvent, under controlled conditions, utilizingone or more of the processes cited in the state of the art, withreagents and raw materials of sufficient purity so as to lead directlyto the formation of pure, anhydrous (I), after removal of the solvents.

In the case of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I), it isparticularly advantageous to conduct the reaction in anhydroustetrahydrofuran or anhydrous dioxane employing equimolar amounts ofN-debenzoyl-10-desacetoxy paclitaxel >98% purity anddi-tertbutyl-dicarbonate of >99% purity. Removal of the solvent anddrying under vacuum affords directly anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in 98% yield.

In an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, we describe aprocess for the preparation of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III), which maybe realized via a simple and efficient technique.

To begin,(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) issolubilized in a solvent which is chemically inert. This solvent may bea linear or branched alcohol containing between 1 and 8 carbons, anorganic acid, an aliphatic or cyclic ether, a polar, aprotic solvent, ahalogentated solvent, an aromatic solvent, a polyethoxylated sorbitol,lecithin or castor oil; or another solvent of adequate polarity toeffect the complete solubilization of (I) and is capable ofsolubilizing, or is miscible with, at least 3 molar equivalents ofwater.

The solution so obtained is admixed with an amount of distilled waterbetween 3 and 200,000 molar equivalents relative to (I). Crystallizationis induced and the tri-hydrate (III) is isolated by means ofconventional processes such as filtration, decantation orcentrifugation.

As such, the steps necessary to realize the process according to thepresent invention are as follow:

a)(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (I) issolubilized in polyethoxylated sorbitol at a temperature between 1 and60° C. with agitation. The quantity of polyethoxylated sorbitol employedis on the order of between 15 to 40 mL per gram of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Thepolyethoxylated sorbitol employed is, preferably, but not exclusively,polysorbate 80.

b) The solution thus obtained is added to a quantity of distilled waterand a co-solvent at ambient temperature to form a homogeneous mixture.The co-solvent employed is a linear alcohol containing between 1 and 8carbons. The proportion of distilled water:alcohol is in the range ofbetween 30 mL:1 mL to 300 mL:50 mL relative to each gram of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate present in thesolution obtained in step a).

c) The mixture obtained is left to stand at room temperature during48-240 h to permit the formation of crystals of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III).

d) The crystals thus obtained are isolated by known techniques andwashed with distilled water to remove vestiges of the solvents employed.Among the known techniques which can be used are filtration, decantationand centrifugation.

e) The crystals are then dried at ambient temperature in a dessicatorover a dessicant, such as P₂O₅, concentrated H₂SO₄, NaOH, Na₂SO₄, MgSO₄or CaCl₂, until reaching constant weight.

In relation to the state of the art, the present invention possessesdiverse advantages which will be evident to persons skilled in the art,among which we may cite as most relevant, but not limited to:

a) the present invention avoids previous purification of the(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate bychromatography, the same being commercially available;

b) the process does not involve evaporation of solvents and avoidsworking at pressures below atmospheric;

c) the process does not result in the formation of a “thick syrup, whosestirring is difficult”, which greatly facilitates the manipulation andhandling of the solutions and simplifies the types of equipmentrequired;

d) All of the steps of the process can be conducted at ambienttemperatures, contrary to the state of the art which requires heatingand refrigeration;

e) the process does not require vacuum drying neither control ofhumidity nor temperature during the drying operation.

In a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, there is alsodescribed the preparation of sterile, stable solutions of anhydrous ortri-hydrated,(2R,3S)-4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III),and also,4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II), in abiocompatible vehicle.

Appropriate vehicles include, but are not limited to, polyethoxylatedsorbitols, and, preferentially polysorbate 80. The solutions areprepared by the slow addition of anhydrous or tri-hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III),or,4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) to the vehiclewith agitation, preferably, in an inert atmosphere, at a concentrationbetween 1 and 100 mg of active ingredient on an anhydrous basis per mLpolysorbate 80.

As an illustrative point, schematic figures of the present invention arepresented in which:

FIG. 1—refers to a schematic representation of the filtration process,as constituted in “Scheme 1”;

FIG. 2—refers to a schematic representation of the dissolution andfiltration process as constituted in “Scheme2”.

With respect to the elements depicted in FIG. 1, number (1) represents asterilizing membrane employed in the filtration with a porosity of 0.22μm. The pressurized vessel is represented by number (2) and therecipient for the sterilized filtrate is represented by number (3). N₂represents the pressure inlet for an inert gas such as nitrogen. Thecombination of these elements constitues “Scheme 1”.

With respect to FIG. 2, the following elements are depicted: reactor(4), temperature control (5), control for agitation (6), sterilizingfiltration membrane (7), and the recipient for the sterilized filtrate(8). N₂ represents the pressure inlet for an inert gas such as nitrogen.The combination of these elements constitutes “Scheme2”.

According to scheme 1, FIG. 1, after complete solubilization of theactive principle, the solution is transferred to a pressure vessel (2),filtered through the sterilizing membrane with a porosity of less than0.45 μm, preferably 0.22 μm and filled into pyrogen free, sterilerecipient(s) (3) in a sterile environment. The products thus obtainedare stable for at least 18 months when stored between 2-8° C.

The preparation of sterile, stable solutions of anhydrous ortri-hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13β-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, (I) or (III),and also,4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II), in abiocompatible vehicle, may also be conducted in an alternative manner.

Appropriate vehicles include, but are not limited to, polyethoxylatedsorbitols, and, preferably, polysorbate 80.

The solution is prepared directly in a stainless steel reactor (4), asshown in FIG. 2, by way of slow addition of the active principle (I),(II) or (III) to the vehicle with internal agitation, preferably underan inert atmosphere, at a concentration between 1 and 100 mg of activeprinciple (on an anhydrous basis)/mL polysorbate 80.

According to scheme 2, after complete solubilization of the activeprinciple, the solution is filtered directly through the sterilizingmembrane (7) with a porosity of less than 0.45 μm, preferably 0.22 μmand collected in a sterile recipient (8) in a sterile environment. Thesolution thus obtained may be filled into pyrogen free, sterile vials,ampoules or other suitable recipient. The products thus obtained arestable for at least 18 months when stored between 2-8° C.

In a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, the aforementionedvehicles may be previously or posteriorly acidified. It is advantageousto acidify the polysorbate 80 prior to the addition of the activeprinciple with an organic, inorganic or mixture of acids, chemicallycompatible with the vehicle and active principle (I, II or III),including, but not limited to, phosphoric, acetic, citric, tartaric orascorbic acids.

It is also advantageous to acidify the solution of the active principlein polysorbate 80 after the complete dissolution of the active principle(I), (II) or (III) with an organic, inorganic or mixture of acids,chemically compatible with the vehicle and active principle (I, II orIII), including, but not limited to, phosphoric, acetic, citric,tartaric or ascorbic acids.

The solutions thus obtained are more stable than solutions which are notacidified. For the purpose of the present invention, the preferableacids to be employed are acetic or ascorbic. The pH may be adjustedbetween 3.0-6.5, preferably, between 3.5 and 4.5. Solutions prepared inthis manner are stable for at least 24 months when stored between 2 and8° C. (Tables 1 and 2).

TABLE 1 Comparative stability study of solutions of the tri-hydrate andanhydrous forms of (2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il 3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in polysorbate 80 with and without the addition of acidA % A % Docetaxel A % Docetaxel Docetaxel A % (anhydrous) (anhydrous)Time (tri- Docetaxel with acetic With ascorbic (months) hydrate)(anhydrous) acid acid 0 100.10 99.87 100.04 99.98 3 100.07 99.72 99.8999.72 6 99.23 99.02 99.03 99.34 12 97.41 97.21 98.98 98.79 18 96.2396.09 98.13 98.02 24 94.14 90.09 97.67 97.48 Note 1: All solutions wereprepared at a concentration of 40 mg/mL, on an anhydrous basis, followedby filtration through a sterilizing mambrane. Note 2: The acidifiedsolutions were prepared from polysorbate 80 whose pH had been previouslyadjusted to between 3.5 and 4.5 by addition of the respective acids.Note 3: Samples were stored between 2 and 8 C. Note 4: Assay ofdocetaxel was performed by HPLC.

TABLE 2 Comparative stability study of4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hidroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il (2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in Cremophor EL and polysorbate 80with and without addition of ascorbic acid A % Paclitaxel A % PaclitaxelAnhydrous Anhydrous Time A % Paclitaxel (polysorbate (polysorbate 80(months) (Cremophor EL) 80) with ascorbic acid) 0 100.08 100.55 100.30 399.46 100.10 100.20 6 99.04 99.81 99.99 12 96.46 97.02 97.90 18 92.1093.05 97.01 24 85.16 89.84 94.97 Note 1: All solutions were prepared ata concentration of 6 mg/mL on an anhydrous basis, followed by filtrationthrough a sterilizing membrane. Note 2: The acidified solutions wereprepared from polysorbate 80 whose pH had been previously adjusted tobetween 3.5 and 4.5 by addition of the respective acids. Note 3: Sampleswere stored between 2 and 8° C. Note 4: Assay of paclitaxel wasperformed by HPLC In a fourteenth and final embodiment of the presentinvention, the solutions obtained by the processes heretofore describedare useful in the treatment of disease or infirmity, including, but notlimited to, neoplastic tumors and other conditions which respond totreatment with agents that inhibit the depolymerization of tubulin, forexample, cancers of the breast, ovaries, lungs and others.

EXAMPLE 1 Process for the Removal of Water of Hydration by Way ofAzeotropic Distillation Under Vacuum

A 1.00 g [1.16 mMol] sample of hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.27% water)was solubilized in 50 mL of reagent grade ethanol. The solution whichwas obtained was distilled under vacuum to remove the ethanol. Theamorphous powder obtained was dried between 30 and 60° C. to constantweight, yielding 0.93 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate containing 0.10%water by KF titration.

EXAMPLE 2 Process for the Removal of Water of Hydration by Way of BinaryAzeotropic Distillation Under Vacuum

A 1.00 g [1.16 mMol] sample of hydrated(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.27% water)was solubilized in 20 mL of ethanol. This was followed by the additionof 180 mL of toluene. The solution thus obtained was distilled undervacuum (20 mmHg/40° C.) to remove, firstly the ethanol. The azeotropeformed between toluene and water was then distilled at 1 mmHg/28° C.Finally, the remainder of the toluene was removed and the amorphouspowder obtained was dried at a temperature around 50° C. until constantweight, yielding 0.92 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate ester containing0.12% water by KF titration.

EXAMPLE 3 Process for the preparation of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate by way ofpurification of impure(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using columnchromatography

A 1.00 g sample of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate, with achromatographic purity of 97.7% (1.1% H₂O), prepared according to themethod of Murray et. al., was solubilized in 2 mL of dichloromethane.The solution obtained was applied to a column of silica gel 60previously activated at 150° C. and eluted with a gradient ofhexane:EtOAc varying from 80:20 to 20:80. The fractions containing pure(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13β-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate were collectedand pooled and the solvent removed on a rotary film evaporator at atemperature between 35 and 75° C. at a pressure between 10 and 40 mm Hg.After drying, there were obtained 0.85 g of with a chromatographicpurity of 99.34% and a water content of 1.2%.

EXAMPLE 4 Process for the preparation of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using ananhydrous solvent as the reaction medium

(This synthesis was realized utilizing a variation of the methodologydescribed by Murray et. al.).

Under an atmosphere of nitrogen, a round bottom flask was charged with500 mL THF, previously distilled over sodium. 10 g [14. 14 mMol] of10-desacetyl-N-debenzoyl-paclitaxel (>99% chromatographic purity, <0.1%water by KF) was added in one portion. This was followed by the additionof 3.08 g [14.14 mMol] of di-tert-butyl-dicarbonate (Aldrich >99%). Thereaction was monitored by TLC and, after complete consumption of thestarting materials, the solvent was removed under vacuum. After dryingthe product under vacuum, 11.42 g (100%) of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate was isolatedwith a chromatographic purity of 99.28% (HPLC) and a water content of0.08% (KF).

EXAMPLE 5 Preparation of the tri-hydrate(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate employingpolysorbate 80, ethanol and water as solvents

A 4.00 g sample of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (0.78% water,98.8% chromatographic purity) was solubilized in 100 mL of polysorbate80 with mechanical agitation. The solution thus obtained was added to amixture containing 180 mL distilled water and 20 mL of absolute ethanol.The clear solution obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature.After two days, crystals (needles) began to form. After five days, thecrystals that had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water, anddried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constantweight was obtained, yielding 3.97 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III) (6.29%water by KF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of anauthentic sample).

EXAMPLE 6 Preparation of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate employingpolysorbate 80, n-butanol and water as solvents

A 4.00 g sample of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (0.78% water,98.8% chromatographic purity) was solubilized in 100 mL of Polysorbate80 with mechanical agitation. The solution thus obtained was added to amixture containing 160 mL distilled water and 30 mL of n-propanol.

The clear solution obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature.After two days, crystals (needles) began to form. After five days, thecrystals that had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water, anddried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constantweight was obtained, yielding 3.67 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (III) (6.24%water by KF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of anauthentic sample).

EXAMPLE 7 Preparation of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate using thewashings of production equipment used in the manufacture of sterileinjectable solutions of (I) in polysorbate 80

To the sterilizing filtration system, consisting of a stainless steel,pressurized reactor, silicone rubber hoses and sterilizing filtrationcapsule with a porosity of 0.22 μm, and containing approximately 1.50 gof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in 36 mL ofpolysorbate 80, was added one liter of isopropanol. The resultingsolution was collected and the alcohol removed under reduced pressure(20 mm Hg) at 40° C. The resulting solution was added to a mixture of 90mL distilled water and 10 mL of ethanol with agitation. The clearsolution which was obtained was left at rest at ambient temperature.After 2 days, crystals (needles) began to form. After 5 days, thecrystals which had formed were filtered, washed with distilled water,and dried between 20 and 30° C. in a dessicator over P₂O₅ until constantweight, yielding 1.21 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (6.21% water byKF titration; the IR spectrum was identical to that of an authenticsample).

EXAMPLE 8 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate ester inpolysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followedby the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filteredthrough a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment underpressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. Thesolution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when storedat temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 9 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in polysorbate80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system,under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This wasfollowed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membranecoupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, andthen filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thusobtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored attemperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 10 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previouslyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had beenprevious acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This was followedby the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filteredthrough a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment underpressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. Thesolution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when storedat temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 11 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylam. in previously acidified polysorbate 80 (using astainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system,under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which hadbeen previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This wasfollowed by the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membranecoupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, andthen filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thusobtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored attemperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 12 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in posteriorlyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followedby the slow addition of 4.00 g of anhydrous(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was then acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0.The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel andfiltered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterileenvironment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customaryprocedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 13 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previouslyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had beenprevious acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0. This was followedby the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filteredthrough a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment underpressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. Thesolution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when storedat temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 14 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in previouslyacidified polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system,under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which hadbeen previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 3.9. This wasfollowed by the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membranecoupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, andthen filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thusobtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored attemperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 15 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate in posteriorlyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followedby the slow addition of 4.27 g of the tri-hydrate of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was then acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH of 4.0.The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel andfiltered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterileenvironment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customaryprocedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 16

Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solution of4-acetoxy-2-a-benzoyloxy-5-ss-20-epoxy-1,7ss-10-ss-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13a-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in polysorbate80 (with compressed air agitation). In a beaker equipped with a helicalcompressed air agitator, under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL ofpolysorbate 80. This was followed by the slow addition of 0.6 ganhydrous4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-(3-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II). Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was transferred to a pressurized vessel and filteredthrough a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment underpressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. Thesolution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when storedat temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 17 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in polysorbate80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system,under an atmosphere of N2 was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This wasfollowed by the slow addition of 0.6 g of anhydrous4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S) 3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membranecoupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, andthen filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thusobtained was shown to be stable for 18 months when stored attemperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 18 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in previouslyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which had beenprevious acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5. Thiswas followed by the slow addition of 0.60 g of4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate.

Agitation was maintained until complete solubilization of the activeingredient. The resulting solution was transferred to a pressurizedvessel and filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterileenvironment under pressure, and then filled in vials using customaryprocedures. The solution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24months when stored at temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 19 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in previouslyacidified polysorbate 80 (using a stainless steel reactor)

In a stainless steel reactor equipped with an internal agitation system,under an atmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80 which hadbeen previous acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5 and 4.5.

This was followed by the slow addition of 0.60 g of4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was filtered through a 0.22 μm sterilizing membranecoupled to the reactor, in a sterile environment under pressure, andthen filled in vials using customary procedures. The solution thusobtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when stored attemperatures between 2 and 8° C.

EXAMPLE 20 Process for the preparation of a stable and sterile solutionof4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (II) in posteriorlyacidified polysorbate 80 (with compressed air agitation)

In a beaker equipped with a helical compressed air agitator, under anatmosphere of N₂ was added 100 mL of polysorbate 80. This was followedby the slow addition of 0.60 g of4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5-β-20-epoxy-1,7β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il(2R,3S)3-benzoylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate. Agitation wasmaintained until complete solubilization of the active ingredient. Theresulting solution was acidified with ascorbic acid to a pH between 3.5and 4.5 and then transferred to a pressurized vessel and filteredthrough a 0.22 μm sterilizing membrane, in a sterile environment underpressure, and then filled in vials using customary procedures. Thesolution thus obtained was shown to be stable for 24 months when storedat temperatures between 2 and 8° C.

Example 21 Comparative stability study between the tri-hydrate andanhydrous forms of(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-il3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate

A % A % A % A % Time Docetaxel Impurities Assay Docetaxel ImpuritiesAssay (months) (tri-hydrate)¹ (unknown) (H₂O)² (anhydrous)³ (unknown)H₂O 0 99.51 0.49 6.32 99.28 0.72 0.10 3 99.23 0.77 6.35 99.21 0.79 0.116 99.30 0.70 6.21 99.26 0.73 0.12 12 98.91 1.09 6.42 98.93 1.07 0.09 1898.72 1.28 6.31 98.65 1.35 0.12 24 98.21 1.79 6.29 98.29 1.71 0.13Experimental data obtained in the laboratories of Quiral Quimica doBrasil S/A ¹Prepared in the laboratories of Quiral Quimica do BrasilS/A. ²Water determined by Karl Fischer titration. ³Prepared according toEXAMPLE 2

Analysis was realized by HPLC using a Waters Spherisorb® C-18, 250×5 mmcolumn, mobile phase MeOH:H₂O 85:15, flow 1.5 mL/min. Related impuritiesreported as A % discounting the peak due to the dead volume. Sampleswere stored in amber glass vials under N₂ in a dessicator over P₂O₅maintained between −5 and 0° C.

The examples given in the present patent application are forillustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting thescope of the invention.

Variations of the heretofore described processes which produce similarresults will be apparent to persons skilled in the art.

1. A sterile pharmaceutical composition consisting of, in proportion of40:1000 w/v,(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate (anhydrousdocetaxel (I)) with a water content lower than 1.0% w/w calculated on ananhydrous basis, and an acidified polysorbate 80; where the acid used toacidify the polysorbate 80 is selected from the group consisting ofacetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is presentin a sufficient quantity to obtain a polysorbate 80 pH in the range of3.0 to 4.5.
 2. A sterile pharmaceutical composition consisting of, inproportion of 40:1000 w/v(2R,3S)4-acetoxy-2-α-benzoyloxy-5β-20-epoxy-1,7-β-10-β-tri-hydroxy-9-oxo-tax-11-en-13α-yl3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-2-hydroxy-3-phenylpropionate 3 H2O (docetaxeltrihydrate (III)) with water content in the range of 5.0-6.8% w/wcalculated on an anhydrous basis, and an acidified polysorbate 80; wherethe acid used to acidify the polysorbate 80 is selected from the groupconsisting of acetic acid, ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein saidacid is present in a sufficient quantity to obtain a polysorbate 80 pHin the range of 3.0 to 4.5.
 3. A sterile pharmaceutical compositionconsisting of, in proportion of 40:1000 w/v docetaxel trihydrate, withwater content in the range of 1.1-4.9% w/w, calculated on an anhydrousbasis, and an acidified polysorbate 80; where the acid used to acidifythe polysorbate 80 is selected from the group consisting of acetic acid,ascorbic acid and citric acid, wherein said acid is present in asufficient quantity to obtain a polysorbate 80 pH in the range of 3.0 to4.5.
 4. A method for treating a neoplastic tumor that is responsive totreatment with an agent that inhibits the depolymerization of tubulincomprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effectiveamount of the pharmaceutical composition of any one of claims 1-3.